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Dear Neighbors,
Yesterday, Governor Walz announced Minnesota’s COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Plan. In partnership with the federal government and local communities, the goal is to quickly, equitably, and safely deliver the vaccine to Minnesotans across the state. No vaccine has been approved yet, but both Pfizer and Moderna have submitted plans for FDA approval, and others are currently in clinical trials. Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are 95 percent effective. In both cases, two doses will be required. Despite the quick development timeline, the vaccines have had to meet strict safety guidance and rigorous clinical trials.
Across the state, there will be 25 distribution hubs set up to directly receive vaccine deliveries through the national vaccine distribution chain. From there, the vaccine will be distributed further to smaller hospitals or clinics, or “spokes.” COVID-19 vaccines and additional supplies will be distributed at no cost to providers registered for COVID-19 vaccination, and vaccines will be provided to people at no cost. Read more from Minnesota Public Radio’s coverage here.
This rollout will take patience and some time. It’s still vitally important for us to continue to do all we can to slow the spread and protect each other and hospital capacity by masking, handwashing, distancing, staying home when we can, and getting tested for COVID-19 if feeling sick.
Touching Base with Local Fire and Police
With session around the corner, I’ve been checking in virtually with local law enforcement and fire to discuss the state of public safety in our 33B communities. I was appreciative to have had the opportunity to speak with Carver County Sheriff Jason Kamerud, Police Chief Mike Meehan of South Lake Minnetonka PD, and Chief Correy Farniok of Orono PD to gain their perspectives on a range of issues. I'm grateful for the great work they and their officers do to keep us safe. I also had the opportunity to connect with Chanhassen Fire Chief Don Johnson and Excelsior Fire Chief Curt Mackey about their districts’ legislative priorities, needs and goals. Strong local and state partnerships are critical to delivering the public services our communities need and deserve. We are lucky to have such incredible public servants in our district!
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